HOUSTON, Dec. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Parker Drilling Company (NYSE: PKD) announced today the appointment of Michael D. Drennon as vice president, operations. In this role, Drennon will be responsible for worldwide drilling operations and the associated financial performance, reporting to Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Dave Mannon.

Prior to joining Parker Drilling, Drennon was program director for BP's development of existing and potential discoveries in Angola. Drennon spent over 28 years with Amoco and BP in a variety of staff, engineering and operations assignments.

"Mike will provide Parker with excellent leadership and project management skills to implement our strategic initiatives and grow our company," said Dave Mannon. "His experience and knowledge of our business will provide an immediate impact to our company and customers."

Drennon received a bachelor of science degree in petroleum engineering from Texas Tech University in 1977.

Parker Drilling is a Houston-based, global energy company specializing in offshore drilling and workover services in the Gulf of Mexico and international land and offshore markets. Parker also owns Quail Tools, a provider of premium industry rental tools. Parker Drilling employs approximately 3,000 people worldwide and has 48 marketed rigs.

SOURCE Parker Drilling Company

12/19/2005

CONTACT: investors, David Tucker, 1-281-406-2370, or media, Marianne Gooch, 1-281-406-2212, both of Parker Drilling Company

9214 12/19/2005 08:03 EST http://www.prnewswire.com